what do i do? whats wrong?

The thrill of welcoming your first flock can feel like winning the lottery—until reality clucks back with a few unwelcome surprises. /u/Funkymanzz is juggling the joy of newfound feathered friends while troubleshooting some serious chicken woes, and we’ve all been there. When a new chicken parent faces challenges, it reminds us of stories like Dog got ahold of my chicken… where a predator attack left a flock in distress, or the tale in Issue with my naked-butt chicken where health issues required quick thinking. These situations highlight the importance of being prepared for the unexpected. Whether it’s a nosy neighbor or a sneaky fox, every chicken owner learns that adventure and anxiety often share the same coop.

Your larger hen’s lack of egg-laying isn’t necessarily a red flag—hens can take up to a year to begin laying, and not all hens are built for egg production. However, the diarrhea raises a poultry-raising eyebrow. Fermented feed can wreak havoc on a hen’s digestive system, causing everything from upset tummies to full-blown sour crop. Since you’ve switched to fresh feed, keep an eye on her droppings—they should firm up within a day or two. As for egg-binding, it’s a serious condition where a hen can’t pass an egg, often caused by calcium deficiencies or stress. To check for it, gently feel her lower abdomen; you might detect a hard mass or a tense, painful reaction. The fact that her tail is held low and she’s less active could point to discomfort. Meanwhile, the other hen’s curiosity and regular laying are excellent signs that the new environment suits her just fine.

Worms in the coop aren’t inherently bad—chickens are natural foragers and love munching on soil and bugs—but an overabundance might signal unhygienic conditions or a diet too heavy on scraps. Avoid feeding fruit or veggie scraps daily, as they can upset the balance. Instead, focus on layer pellets, fresh water, and a clean coop. If the diarrhea persists or worsens, or if she becomes lethargic, consider a vet visit if possible, even on a budget. Sometimes a $20 bag of electrolyte supplements or a warm bath can work wonders. For now, monitor her feeding habits, ensure she’s not isolated from the flock, and give her space to process this dramatic life change.

Every chicken owner has a “what did I get myself into?” moment, but those moments often lead to the strongest bonds. How many of us have whispered secrets to our hens while they pecked at our tears? Keep sharing your journey—it’s not just about the eggs; it’s about the flock you’re building, one cluck at a time.